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Cyclosporine

Cyclosporine Rx Drug Information 

Updated on February 03, 2023
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Reviewed by Dr. Elyse Macartney
DVM

What does it do? | How does it work? | How to give it to your pet | Dosage | How long until it works? | Side effects | Safety considerations | Contraindications | Missed dose | Cost

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A properly functioning immune system helps fight disease and keep pets healthy. If your pet has an overactive immune response that results in severe allergies or an autoimmune disorder, however, your vet may prescribe a medicine called cyclosporine.  

What does cyclosporine do?

Sold under the brand names Atopica, Sandimmune, Neoral and Optimmune at Petco’s pet pharmacy fulfilled by Vetsource, cyclosporine is used to reduce a pet’s immune response. It is most commonly prescribed to treat atopic dermatitis, a chronic skin disease.  

While the FDA approves cyclosporine for a limited number of conditions in dogs and cats, it can also be prescribed off-label by your veterinarian for other health problems. Some common health conditions treated by cyclosporine for cats and dogs include: 

  • Dry eye
  • Pannus
  • Perianal fistulas
  • Immune-mediated hemolytic anemia
  • Immune-mediated low platelet levels
  • Myasthenia gravis
  • Inflammatory bowel disease
  • Pemphigus foliaceous  
  • Chronic-active hepatitis
  • Feline eosinophilic granuloma complex
  • Sebaceous adenitis
  • Feline asthma

Vets may also prescribe the medication to reduce the chances of organ rejection in cats after a kidney transplant.  

How does it work? 

Severe allergic reactions and autoimmune diseases occur when the immune system overreacts and begins attacking the body. T-cells are an important part of the immune system, and cyclosporine works by changing how they function. This medication also affects the behavior or antibodies that normally help fight diseases. 

How to give cyclosporine to your pet 

Cyclosporine in cats and dogs is only available with a prescription from your vet. If you suspect your pet has skin allergies or may have an autoimmune condition, schedule an appointment with your veterinarian. 

Cyclosporine for cats comes in a liquid suspension, while cyclosporine for dogs is usually prescribed as a capsule. The medication may also be administered as eye drops or an ointment. If your pet cannot take oral medications, they may need to receive intravenous injections in a hospital .  

When it is time to give your pet cyclosporine medication, follow the instructions on the prescription label. Make sure to provide the drug to your dog on an empty stomach. Cats should take it with food.

Dosage recommendations 

The correct cyclosporine dosage for your pet will depend on their species, breed, age, health and the specific condition being treated. It may also depend on what other medications your pet is taking.Your vet may recommend regular blood tests during this time to make sure this dog and cat prescription is being absorbed effectively.

How long does it take for cyclosporine to work? 

While you may notice small improvements within a few days of your pet starting the medication, it can take up to six weeks for cyclosporine to take full effect. 

Cyclosporine side effects

The most common side effects are gastrointestinal, including vomiting, diarrhea and poor appetite. These reactions typically improve with time. If side effects are severe, your vet may recommend lowering the dosage. 

Less common cyclosporine side effects in pets include: 

  • Urinary tract infections
  • Lethargy
  • Overgrown gums
  • Enlarged lymph nodes
  • Excessive drooling
  • Sneezing
  • Gingivitis
  • Increased thirst
  • Ear infections
  • Behavioral problems
  • Conjunctivitis

Safety considerations  

The purpose of cyclosporine is to decrease the power of your pet’s immune system. While this can help relieve allergic and autoimmune responses, your kitty or pup may be less able to fight infections. Pets on this medication may also be at a higher risk for viral warts or toxoplasmosis.  

Cats and dogs who should not take cyclosporine include:  

  • Pets with a history of cancer or who may be at a high risk of cancer
  • Cats with feline leukemia virus (FeLV) 
  • Cats with feline immunodeficiency virus (FIV)
  • Pets with liver disease
  • Pets younger than 6 months old  
  • Cats weighing less than 3 pounds and dogs weighing less than 4 pounds
  • Pets with kidney disease
  • Pets with diabetes
  • Pets who are pregnant or nursing

Wear gloves when administering cyclosporine, and give your hands a good wash afterward.  

Contraindications

Many cat and dog prescriptions can negatively interact with cyclosporine, including common antibiotics, antacids, antifungal medications, anti-seizure medications, steroids and some heart medications. Always inform your vet about the medications your pet is taking, including over-the-counter vitamins and supplements. 

What happens if I forget to give my pet a dose of cyclosporine?

Don’t worry if you forget to give your pet a dose of their cyclosporine—it happens. Give your pet a dose of the medication as soon as you remember, but skip it if it’s close to the time of their next dose. You never want to double dose. Also remember that dogs should take cyclosporine on an empty stomach, so you may need to wait a few more hours if your pup has just eaten. Cats should take it with food.

How much does cyclosporine cost?

The cost of cyclosporine will depend on several factors, including which brand your vet prescribes and the dosage. The price may be higher if you need to go through a compounding pharmacy for a non-standard dose. 

Cyclosporine can be pricey.  

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